Chapter 261-267(Demonic Cultivator) (Patreon)

Chapter 261: I Only Wish to Cultivate, Do Not Disturb My Peace

In the Golden Phoenix Sect, Nascent Soul Ancestor Jin Zhao was conversing with a refined-looking middle-aged cultivator. The two sat opposite each other at a square table, with two steaming cups of spiritual tea between them. The refined cultivator sipped his tea continuously, showering it with praise, yet Jin Zhao did not touch his own.

"What is it? Does Fellow Daoist Jin have any concerns?" the refined cultivator asked with a smile.

Jin Zhao gave a wry smile, "Fellow Daoist Ximen... after all, the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace is a fifth-level cultivation sect, whereas my Golden Phoenix Sect is but a fourth-level one. What virtue or ability does my sect have to even dream of replacing the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace?

When the higher-ups ordered me to unify the Northern Cold, I did not hesitate to start a war between righteous and demonic forces. But to replace Feather Transformation Heaven Palace... frankly, that's a tall order."

The refined cultivator was Ximen Changqing from the Majestic Sword Sect. He smiled reassuringly, "Just take it easy, Fellow Daoist Jin. The higher-ups only need an additional layer of insurance. After all, Feather Transformation Heaven Palace had a Transcendent Nascent Soul who was suppressed by the higher-ups, and it's uncertain if they harbor any resentment.

Now, with the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect stirring, and Mystic Azure Star being closest to the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect's Blood River Star, it's likely to be the first target. If Feather Transformation Heaven Palace were to secretly align with Heaven Shaking Divine Sect, wouldn't that put all cultivators of Mystic Azure Star in great peril? You, Fellow Daoist Jin, should be more aware of this than I."

Jin Zhao sighed lightly and nodded. When the Reincarnation Divine Church clashes with the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect, it's a battle of deities, and they, mere minions, must simply obey orders. If Mystic Azure Star's protective formation were ever breached, the entire star would be doomed, and no one could escape the consequences.

Ximen Changqing continued, "If Feather Transformation Heaven Palace leans towards the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect, then your Golden Phoenix Sect will become the primary sect stationed on Mystic Azure Star by the higher-ups. They will help you advance to the Transcendent Nascent Soul phase, and thereafter, Golden Phoenix Sect will become a fifth-level cultivation sect.

Should it turn out that Feather Transformation Heaven Palace has no connections with the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect, and your sect accomplishes the task of unifying the Northern Cold, you will also receive a great bounty of treasures. Why not go for it?"

Jin Zhao, moved by the argument, nodded repeatedly. "In that case, I will dedicate myself wholeheartedly to the higher-ups!" he declared, bowing respectfully towards the sky.

Ximen Changqing smiled, "That's the spirit. And remember, let no one know of the association between my Majestic Sword Sect and your sect."

Jin Zhao nodded, "Of course, I am well aware of that."

If it became known that the Golden Phoenix Sect was secretly contacting the Majestic Sword Sect and receiving gifts, it would spell trouble for Golden Phoenix Sect.

It would be akin to secretly meeting with the boss next door behind one's own employer's back, raising suspicions about potentially switching allegiances.

Ximen Changqing left behind a top-grade storage bag.

"This contains resources provided by my Majestic Sword Sect as ordered by the higher-ups, for the aid of Golden Phoenix Sect," he said with a smile. "Now that I have delivered the items, I shall take my leave." With a gesture of his hand, he altered his appearance.

Jin Zhao was puzzled, "Fellow Daoist Ximen, won't you stay at Golden Phoenix Sect?"

Ximen Changqing laughed heartily, "I am busy with my cultivation. If not for our sect leader knowing of our acquaintance and specifically sending me here, I would still be in secluded cultivation."

Jin Zhao nodded, "Take care, Fellow Daoist Ximen."

"Take care," Ximen Changqing nodded, quickly departing.

He looked back at Golden Phoenix Sect and shook his head slightly. "Mystic Azure will inevitably become the first battlefield between the Reincarnation Divine Church and the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect; staying here is akin to courting death. I certainly won't stay behind."

Reflecting on Jin Zhao's words, he chuckled and shook his head, then headed straight for Central Continent.

The teleportation arrays scattered across Mystic Azure Star could only lead to a previously hazardous extraterritorial battlefield. Only after transiting through that battlefield could one travel to other cultivation stars.

But since that battlefield had collapsed, all local teleportation arrays had become inactive. Only Feather Transformation Heaven Palace still possessed a teleportation array leading to a perilous extraterritorial battlefield.

Ximen Changqing had used a disguise and transited twice to travel from Dawn Star to Mystic Azure Star. Those who used this teleportation array were mostly Nascent Soul cultivators. Holding a token from the Reincarnation Divine Church, Feather Transformation Heaven Palace dared not thoroughly check his identity.

Ximen Changqing safely stepped into the teleportation array and left Mystic Azure Star completely.

...

Blue Star.

Above an ocean, Chu Xuan suddenly stood up, his expression satisfied. "Finally, I have reached the fourth layer of Nascent Soul." His body flickered, and in the blink of an eye, he appeared hundreds of meters away. His speed was astonishing.

Looking down, the sea surface over which he had passed had turned into thick frost. Some fish were frozen within it, lifelike as if they were still swimming. Despite it being the height of summer, the sea had frozen over in moments, demonstrating the power of this technique.

"This 'Ice Crystal Divine Light Escape' is really excellent. Not only is the escape speed extremely fast, but it also has such cold energy, which can slow down enemies. Truly worthy of being the escape technique that complements the Mysterious Heavenly Ice Soul Scroll."

Chu Xuan nodded in satisfaction, gazing out over the vast ocean, his hands suddenly clenched. A torrent of ice Spiritual Qi erupted forth.

At the command of his will, a massive square ice pillar surged from beneath the sea, piercing the sky. The rumbling sound vibrated in all directions.

With a grasp of his hand, there was a sharp crack as the ice pillar suddenly exploded, scattering into countless ice shards. These shards descended from the sky, swiftly freezing a large area of the surrounding sea.

Chu Xuan looked on with admiration, "This technique, 'Ice God Pillar,' is also quite impressive. First, it conjures a massive ice pillar out of thin air, which can then explode to cover a vast area, easily overwhelming early Nascent Soul cultivators. If I were to consume some Nascent Soul essence to enhance the power of the Ice God Pillar, even overpowering fourth or fifth-layer Nascent Soul cultivators wouldn't be difficult."

With a thought, a pitch-black chain wrapped in strands of blood suddenly appeared. The chain whipped down fiercely, and a large swath of the ocean evaporated instantly.

The Evil Soul Chain was now a high-grade magic treasure infused with a substantial amount of Blood Resentment Black Steel.

Chu Xuan gestured, and a small bottle appeared in his hand, exuding intense frost that quickly spread over the sea surface. Two giant crossbows materialized, with frost arrows forming automatically, ready to puncture any enemy with a single command.

Chu Xuan's smile was one of contentment. His arsenal was now vast. In terms of Spiritual Qi spells, he had the offensive Ice God Pillar and the chase and escape Ice Crystal Divine Light Escape.

For psychic techniques, he had offensive skills like Sky-Tearing Cold Palm and Great Devouring Palm, and defensively, the Triple True Shield. In body refining techniques, there was the Great Extinguishing Thunder Fist.

Regarding magic treasures, he possessed the Evil Soul Chain, Ice Sun Crossbow, and Yin Frost Bottle. Moreover, he commanded two ghost kings and a corpse king.

Few Nascent Soul cultivators could claim such a multifaceted development with no apparent weaknesses. Anyone attempting to exploit his weaknesses would only humiliate themselves.

"Training and training, I've gradually become an all-rounder," Chu Xuan mused with a chuckle. He pondered, "The movements of the Golden Phoenix Sect are becoming more frequent now, surely signaling the onset of a war between righteous and demonic forces. Myriad Souls Sect, with its weaker strength, is likely to be the first target of the righteous sects. Well, I only wish to cultivate in peace, do not disturb me..."

Chapter 262: Righteous Acts, Known and Justified

A month later at the Golden Phoenix Sect. Today marks the 800th birthday of Jin Zhao, the Nascent Soul Ancestor of the Golden Phoenix Sect.

For this occasion, a feast was prepared, and cultivators from various sects were invited. As the leader of the righteous sects in the Northern Cold, Jin Zhao, a long-renowned Nascent Soul cultivator, naturally had many cultivators come to present their gifts.

About two-thirds of the Northern Cold's Nascent Soul and Golden Core cultivators arrived at Golden Phoenix Sect. The entire sect was enveloped in a joyous and bustling atmosphere.

In the magnificent hall, a gathering of powerful individuals was underway. Elder Jin Zhao was seated at the highest place, flanked by the Nascent Soul Ancestors of five major sects including Ascendant Cloud Sect and Green Mountain Sect.

Below them sat a myriad of Golden Core cultivators from the cultivation community of the Northern Cold, each seated according to their respective sects, creating an impressive assembly.

The table was laden with fine wines and exquisite dishes. The cultivators mingled cheerfully, but three seats remained conspicuously empty. These were meant for the Nascent Soul Ancestors of the three sects from the Wu Country. Their absence was notable, yet the other cultivators pretended not to notice, continuing their conversations.

Jin Zhao glanced around the hall and subtly signaled to the False Soul Elder of the Original Yang Sect. Understanding the cue, the False Soul cultivator stood up and pointed at the empty seats, raising his voice, "What does it mean for the Nascent Soul cultivators of the three sects of Wu not to attend senior Jin's 800th birthday? They don't even bother to show up!"

His words quickly found agreement.

"Indeed! They show no respect for senior Jin! They do not respect us righteous cultivators!"

"Those three demonic sects of Wu have blood on their hands. They dare not come here!"

"If you ask me, senior Jin should not have invited them at all. How can we, as righteous cultivators, consort with those of the demonic path?"

The hall filled with indignant voices, as if this had been pre-planned. Elder Jin Zhao, his Spiritual Qi stirring, shouted, "Silence!"

The aura of a Nascent Soul cultivator filled the room, and the restive atmosphere briefly calmed.

The False Soul cultivator suddenly knelt down, his voice full of sorrow and anger, "Elder Jin! You must stand up for the Original Yang Sect! Those demonic sects of Wu are utterly despicable! The Original Yang Sect had only two disciples of exceptional talent, and both were killed in the Yin Soul Mountains!"

Jin Zhao responded in shock, "What? Such a thing happened?"

The False Soul cultivator angrily declared, "If senior Jin cannot stand up for the Original Yang Sect, then tomorrow I will march into the Yin Soul Mountains myself and annihilate Myriad Souls Sect!" With that, he made as if to rush out of the hall.

Ascendant Cloud Sect's Nascent Soul Ancestor, Ling Su, promptly stood up, his voice solemn, "Old Ma! Do not act recklessly! Alone, you and your sect are no match for the three demonic sects."

Immediately, Luo Hua of Green Mountain Sect declared, "The Myriad Souls Sect has proven itself brutally savage. After the last war between the righteous and the demonic, we spared them, mindful of Heaven's mercy, imploring them to forsake the demonic path. Yet, who could have anticipated that in merely a century, they would not only escalate their atrocities but also inflict grave harm upon numerous righteous cultivators!"

Luo Hua turned to Jin Zhao, "I heard that your disciple, Xiao Tianjiao, also perished in the Yin Soul Mountains?"

Jin Zhao's eyes misted over, "Indeed... Initially, I was so enraged that I wanted to storm into the Yin Soul Mountains myself. However, reflecting on the endless cycle of vengeance, I ultimately relinquished my desire for retribution."

"But who would have thought that the three demonic sects of Wu would be so ferocious and malevolent, to the extent of harming the cultivators of the Original Yang Sect? Clearly, they have not repented." Jin Zhao gripped the armrest tightly, his eyes reddening.

Ma Zouri bellowed, "Please, senior Jin, issue the command! Original Yang Sect is ready to lead the charge, to storm into Wu Country! We shall annihilate the three demonic sects and restore a clear and pure realm to the Northern Cold cultivation world!" With that, he half-knelt, his aura seething with murderous intent.

The remaining two Golden Core cultivators of the Original Yang Sect also knelt, their expressions resolute. In the blink of an eye, a large number of cultivators knelt down as well.

"Please, senior Jin, issue the command to attack the three demonic sects!" Their voices boomed like thunder, resonating through the cosmos.

Ling Su and Luo Hua also stood, bowing toward Jin Zhao, "The three demonic sects of Wu remain unrepentant; it appears they cannot be redeemed. Please, Fellow Daoist Jin, issue the command!"

Jin Zhao sighed deeply, "I had no wish to perpetuate slaughter, yet the demonic cultivators' excessive tyranny leaves us no choice!" He rose abruptly, his voice resounding, "Carry out my orders, march into Wu Country! Annihilate the three demonic sects within three years!"

"Yes!" The cultivators responded in unison, their voices like a rumble of muffled thunder.

Jin Zhao looked upon the fierce assembly of righteous cultivators, his smiled.

Just as Chu Xuan had anticipated, during the 800th birthday celebration of Jin Zhao, the Nascent Soul Ancestor of the Golden Phoenix Sect, a declaration was made to invade Wu Country and annihilate the three demonic sects there.

Instantaneously, the perennial war between the righteous and demonic cultivators of the Northern Cold cultivation realm erupted.

Within days, Chu Xuan received news that the lesser sects and schools under the Corpse Yin Sect and the Poison Gu Sect were being attacked by the righteous sects. The three demonic sects of Wu Country were, after all, outnumbered.

Every century or so, the Golden Phoenix Sect would initiate such a war. Each time, these smaller sects and schools would undergo a major reshuffle. However, the battles typically concluded not with the obliteration of the three demonic sects of Wu, but rather with their paying reparations through various treasures.

Chu Xuan felt that the three demonic sects of Wu were somewhat pitiable. Every hundred years, they were harvested like chives by the righteous sects. They were killed, their treasures looted, and yet they were expected to smile and sue for peace. It was truly a heart-wrenching scenario.

"If it truly were just for the treasures, it wouldn't matter, since none of the treasures were mine to begin with," Chu Xuan reasoned. "But this time, Golden Phoenix Sect's slogan is to invade Wu Country and eradicate the demonic paths, clearly aiming to completely eliminate the demonic sects."

"Especially Golden Phoenix Sect, which is undoubtedly seeking vengeance for the death of Xiao Tianjiao. It seems I cannot escape; they will surely come looking for me." Chu Xuan shook his head repeatedly.

At that moment, the respectful voice of Zhu Jie came from outside. "Elder, the Grand Elder requests your presence at the main peak; the other elders have also been summoned."

Chu Xuan nodded and immediately took flight towards the main peak of the Yin Soul Mountains. It was obvious that the summons was about the war between the righteous and demonic forces.

Upon his arrival, however, Chu Xuan noticed two exotic beasts near the summit. One was a gigantic purple-black centipede, a hundred zhang in length, with narrow antennae and numerous legs that writhed in a manner most unsettling. The other was a thirty-plus zhang black hawk, its gaze fierce, as if it were about to prey on someone.

Yet, despite their formidable appearances, such massive demonic beasts generally lacked combat effectiveness and were only suitable for transport tasks.

Of course, even though they were relatively docile, no Nascent Soul cultivator could hope to control such colossal creatures.

With little thought, Chu Xuan surmised that representatives from the other two demonic sects of Wu Country had arrived. The giant centipede was likely a nurtured creature from the Poison Gu Sect, and the black hawk was probably a demonic beast from the Corpse Yin Sect.

A storm was brewing.

Chapter 263: Sacrificing Chu Xuan?

Atop the main peak of the Yin Soul Mountain Range, within the grand hall of the Myriad Souls Sect.

Chu Xuan entered the hall. Considering Lin Fan's strength and experience, he took a seat in the last row next to Wan Wuying.

The current Wan Wuying evidently lacked the spirit he possessed when he first joined the Myriad Souls Sect. His face bore a look of distress, and his brows betrayed a hint of helplessness. Seeing Chu Xuan sit beside him, he managed only a forced smile, "Brother Lin."

Chu Xuan nodded in return, "Brother Wan."

Wan Wuying's demeanor was unsurprising. Enslaved by another's power, he found no time for cultivation. Should he fail to break his bonds, he was doomed to remain a lifelong slave to the Myriad Souls Elder, a fate far removed from his life's ambition. Originally, he had ventured to the outer domain battlefield precisely to seek the Nascent Soul spiritual item.

Chu Xuan's arrival naturally caught the attention of others. The cultivators from the Corpse Yin Sect and the Poison Gu Sect gave Chu Xuan a cursory glance before dismissing him from their attention. Only a few in the know took a longer look at him, aware that it was Chu Xuan who had slain Xiao Tianjiao of the Golden Phoenix Sect.

Bai Jin Kun trembled at the sight of Chu Xuan, daring not to linger his gaze.

Yet, the Myriad Souls Elder exhibited no such tremors.

Seeing Chu Xuan sitting quietly in the last row just like Lin Fan, Myriad Souls Elder couldn't help but want to smile bitterly. This Nascent Soul great cultivator, whose strength far surpassed both the old cultivators from the Corpse Yin Sect and the Poison Gu Sect, carried no airs and willingly sat among the Golden Core cultivators.

Such a composed and humble disposition instilled fear in him. Having lived so long, he knew well that only such characters could achieve great distances.

"Myriad Souls old ghost, have all your sect's people arrived?" asked Zheng Ji, the Nascent Soul ancestor of the Corpse Yin Sect, his voice calm as he scanned the room.

The Myriad Souls Elder smiled faintly, "All six Golden Core cultivators are present."

Zheng Ji turned to the elder, "We convene on your territory for this discussion, so I shall not overstep my bounds. Myriad Souls old ghost, you begin."

The Myriad Souls Elder nodded, "This gathering of the three sects of Wu Country is to discuss the looming Righteous-Demonic Great War. The Golden Phoenix Sect is rallying the righteous cultivators of Northern Cold, aiming for unification. Unlike in times past, they are not driven by various demonic treasures but seek to completely eradicate our Dao.

This impending war of righteousness and demons is a battle for our very survival. Given our minority status among the demonic cultivators of Northern Cold, how we can overcome the many with the few, and turn less into more, requires collective wisdom to devise the best course of action."

In the silence of the assembly, the Nascent Soul ancestor of the Poison Gu Sect, Guan Tong, suddenly cleared his throat, prompting a cultivator from his sect to stand.

"Myriad Souls Ancestor, I believe it is not as straightforward. Every century or so, the Golden Phoenix Sect inevitably finds pretexts to ignite the Righteous-Demonic Wars. Our three sects of Wu Country tacitly engage with them, testing our mettle, this time being no exception. We can quell those greedy righteous sects by simply offering some treasures. Why has the righteous alliance come so aggressively this time? It is because a prodigy of the Golden Phoenix Sect met his demise in the Yin Soul Mountains."

The Poison Gu Sect cultivator glanced toward Chu Xuan, "I say, if we hand over the murderer, we can surely extinguish the fury of the Golden Phoenix Sect. Though it may not halt the war, it would certainly slow their advance, buying us time to rally support from the demonic sects of the Eastern Border and Western Land, lending us their strength. Fellow Daoist Lin, daring in action, why not step forward and nobly sacrifice yourself? If Fellow Daoist Lin is unwilling, our Poison Gu Sect is prepared to deliver him to the Golden Phoenix Sect!"

Upon these words, the eyes of all the cultivators in the hall converged on Chu Xuan. Some murmured among themselves, astonished that Xiao Tianjiao had been slain by such an obscure Golden Core cultivator.

Chu Xuan frowned in response.

Guan Tong's face darkened with anger as he rebuked, "Hold your tongue! Our three demonic sects have always shared a common enemy. How can we commit such a self-harming act that delights our foes? Such words must never again be spoken, lest they damage the harmony among our sects! You are fined five years' salary! Collect your punishment upon your return!"

The Golden Core cultivator from the Poison Gu Sect, after a stern reprimand, begrudgingly sat down, still visibly upset. Yet, the lenient punishment made it clear that it was likely a maneuver orchestrated by Guan Tong himself.

The unity within the three demonic sects was not as solid as it appeared. Many believed that the Myriad Souls Sect had brought this trouble upon themselves. If the righteous sects declared their intent targeted only at the Myriad Souls Sect, others would scarcely conceal their glee.

Chu Xuan noticed several cultivators from the Poison Gu Sect possibly harboring such thoughts.

The Myriad Souls Elder shuddered upon hearing the proposal of sacrificing Chu Xuan.

Bai Jin Kun, usually so composed, nearly spat out his tea in shock upon hearing someone suggest handing over Lin Fan to the righteous sects, drawing a look of surprise from the nearby Zhong Yan.

Zheng Ji frowned deeply, "Stop this foolish talk! The righteous sects float these suggestions to sow discord among us. Today they ask for one, tomorrow they will demand two. And then three, four after that. If one day they demand your surrender, could you still utter such words?"

The cultivators of the Poison Gu Sect were left speechless, realizing the gravity of the situation only when it fell upon their own heads.

Zheng Ji snorted coldly, "We shall discuss only strategies to counter the righteous alliance. Bring up anything else, and I will show no leniency!"

His gaze settled unmistakably on Guan Tong. Zheng Ji, the strongest among the three, having attained the third level of the Nascent Soul, carried considerable influence.

Guan Tong had no choice but to divert his gaze and remain silent.

Within the Myriad Souls Temple, the cultivators eagerly voiced their opinions. Some argued that they should seek assistance from the demonic sects of the Western Land and Eastern Border, hoping they would understand the peril they all shared.

Others suggested bribing sects like the Ascendant Cloud Sect, Green Mountain Sect, and Original Yang Sect, clarifying the benefits and consequences to persuade them to abstain from attacking the three demonic sects.

After all, once a war between righteousness and demons erupted, casualties were inevitable, and vast amounts of cultivation resources would be expended. Why engage in battle when the desired benefits could be obtained without death and expenditure?

Yet another cultivator proposed that they should appeal to the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace for intervention, a suggestion that was met with derision by others.

The Feather Transformation Heaven Palace, a bastion of righteousness, was unlikely to meddle in the affairs of Northern Cold on behalf of the three demonic sects.

Chu Xuan, seated among the Golden Core cultivators of the Myriad Souls Sect, found the debate tediously soporific. He had never been one for scheming. Scheming was for those of nearly equal strength, or for the weaker to use cunning tactics to overcome the stronger. But with overwhelming power, what need was there for schemes? Simply crushing all opposition would suffice.

As dusk approached, the discussions finally concluded, and everyone returned to their respective peaks. Bai Jin Kun, Zhong Yan, and other cultivators also prepared to head back.

"Fan'er, wait a moment," the Myriad Souls Elder said kindly.

"Yes," Chu Xuan nodded.

Chapter 264: Now, It Is Time for Me to Act

Moments later, only Chu Xuan and Myriad Souls Elder remained in the great hall.

Myriad Souls Elder then asked, "Did today's words from the Poison Gu Sect cultivator anger the master? I have the authority to deploy troops and could easily use some tricks to ensure his utter destruction," he continued.

Chu Xuan waved his hand dismissively, "It's not really anger. Just make sure he's more careful in his next life."

"Understood."

"Is that all you wished to discuss with me?" Chu Xuan asked casually.

Myriad Souls Elder shook his head, "There's another matter. You had instructed me to discipline Zhong Yan, which I have done. She won't dare disturb your peace anymore."

"Well done," Chu Xuan nodded.

Unable to hold back, Myriad Souls then expressed, "Master, the disparity between the forces of righteousness and demonic powers in Northern Cold is about seventy to thirty. If this continues, you won't have peace to cultivate… Might you consider intervening?"

Chu Xuan smiled. He certainly intended to intervene. With such a power imbalance, if he remained on the sidelines, he would never find peace. Sooner or later, he'd be forced to change his identity and leave. And he was too lazy to relocate.

"Send me all the information on those Nascent Soul cultivators from the righteous path," Chu Xuan instructed nonchalantly. "And every single update on the movements of the Righteous-Demonic War as well. I shall act when it is time."

Hearing this, Myriad Souls was greatly reassured and bowed deeply in gratitude, "Thank you, master."

After Chu Xuan left the hall, Myriad Souls Elder finally breathed a sigh of relief. "His strength far surpasses Zheng Ji, Guan Tong, and myself. With him acting, we could at least match Golden Phoenix Sect's Jin Zhao. This could change the odds from seventy-thirty to a more manageable sixty-forty. Just as long as the gap isn't too vast…"

Myriad Souls Elder felt considerably better.

…

In the blink of an eye, three years passed on Mystic Azure Star. Every few days, a battle report would be delivered to Black Devil Peak, allowing Chu Xuan to clearly understand the progress of the Righteous-Demonic War in Northern Cold.

The land was rife with war and turmoil, yet the three demonic sects of Wu Country remained unvanquished. The righteous sects' proclamation of eradicating the three demonic sects within three years had turned into a joke.

"Just as I expected," Chu Xuan mused. "The righteous sects are mighty but disunited, with each sect scrambling for gains. Moreover, the righteous sects have historically ended these wars victorious, fostering arrogance among their cultivators. They believe that no matter how the battle goes, they will eventually win."

"Once they invaded Wu Country, they immediately dispersed, attacking the Corpse Yin Sect, Poison Gu Sect, Myriad Souls Sect, and various affiliated sects individually."

"Lacking a united front to focus their assault on a single sect, it's quite difficult for them to topple the three demonic sects of Wu Country in a short time."

Chu Xuan smiled faintly, his guess about the state of affairs not far off. He hadn't expected that in just three years, the situation would have devolved into a series of isolated conflicts.

A flash of information crossed his mind, revealing the profiles of the Nascent Soul cultivators from the righteous sects:

"Jin Zhao, Nascent Soul ancestor of Golden Phoenix Sect, likely a third-level Nascent Soul, possessing formidable strength."

"Ling Su, Nascent Soul ancestor of Ascendant Cloud Sect, likely a second-level Nascent Soul."

"Luo Hua, Nascent Soul ancestor of Green Mountain Sect, likely a second-level Nascent Soul."

"Ma Zouri, a False Soul stage cultivator..."

None of them was in the middle stage of the Nascent Soul, making them manageable opponents for Chu Xuan. Handling multiple adversaries at once would pose no issue, especially since these were all early-stage Nascent Soul cultivators, which was easy to comprehend.

The more advanced Nascent Soul and late-stage cultivators were mostly engaged in extraterritorial battlefields, preparing for Deity Transformation and seeking spiritual items.

Jin Zhao and his peers, being of lower realms, saw no need to venture into perilous battlefields and chose to remain on Mystic Azure Star to guard their traditions.

Chu Xuan wasn't particularly concerned about these individuals. Despite their numbers, they posed little threat. Should he decide to take action, he only needed to find an occasion when they were gathered together to resolve them swiftly.

His interest lay in the broader dynamics. Previously, in perilous battlefields, Chu Xuan had become aware of the deep-seated conflict between the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect and the Reincarnation Divine Church.

For the coveted Taotie Seed Tree, the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect had even infiltrated the battlefields controlled by the Reincarnation Divine Church.

He had heard that Mystic Azure Star was the nearest celestial body to the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect. Should these two level-six cultivation sects clash, Mystic Azure Star would inevitably become their primary target.

If the latter scenario were to unfold, Chu Xuan needed to prepare early. The local cultivators of Mystic Azure Star would not be able to match the status of the rulers brought by the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect. If he was to aim for the Deity Transformation stage, interacting with the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect was inevitable. Naturally, a higher status was preferable.

Ideally, he would become one of the rulers from the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect overseeing Mystic Azure Star.

Chu Xuan mused with a hint of irritation, "Golden Phoenix Sect aims to unify Northern Cold, and yet Feather Transformation Heaven Palace shows no reaction... What exactly are the cultivators of Feather Transformation Heaven Palace doing?"

Placed in the outside world, as a Nascent Soul cultivator, he was regarded as a great master by others. Yet, caught in the strategic play between two level-six cultivation sects, he was merely a pawn.

"Strength... it always comes down to strength. If I were a divine ascendant now, both the Reincarnation Divine Church and Heaven Shaking Divine Sect would be courting me themselves, seeking to secure my allegiance. Why should I need to sift through minor details to trace the subtle schemes laid by these two sects?"

Chu Xuan sighed lightly. The longer one survived in this survival-of-the-fittest cultivation world, the clearer the importance of strength became.

...

Another half-year passed.

Chu Xuan received fresh intelligence brought by the Myriad Souls Elder Sect. It turned out that it wasn't just Northern Cold; the Eastern Border, Western Land, and the Southern Wilderness had also witnessed large-scale sect conflicts. The Southern Wilderness moved fastest, with a sect called Southern Wilderness Palace rising from the ruins of sects like the Hundred Refinement Sect and the Heaven Burning Sect. It had rapidly swallowed smaller sects, unifying the Southern Wilderness.

In the Eastern Border and Western Land, the various sects were still locked in fierce battles, and the situation remained unclear. Clearly, a massive unseen hand was manipulating the grand chessboard of Mystic Azure.

"Jin Zhao has finally resorted to drastic measures, executing two disobedient Golden Core cultivators in front of all the cultivators," reported the intelligence. "Such actions will undoubtedly unify the righteous path, galvanizing them to decisively crush the three demonic sects of Wu Country."

After reading today's battle report, Chu Xuan was contemplative. In truth, Jin Zhao could have employed such severe measures from the beginning—using swift and harsh actions to suppress the other righteous sects, thoroughly imposing his will, and quickly invading Wu Country to annihilate the three demonic traditions.

However, employing such tactics too soon would have deprived many cultivators of their deserved spoils, leaving him with few genuine supporters.

Now, three and a half years later, every moderately powerful righteous cultivator had garnered significant gains. Targeting two individuals with little backing now served perfectly as a warning to others.

"It's finally time for me to take action."

Chu Xuan slowly rose to his feet, his robe stirring as if touched by an unseen breeze.

His gaze, deep and distant, seemed to pierce through the void, looking directly towards the gate of Golden Phoenix Sect.

Chapter 265: I Will Ascend to Dominate Northern Cold by Stepping Over You!

Fallen Phoenix Mountain, within the domain of the Corpse Yin Sect, had previously been the territory of its affiliated Fallen Phoenix Sect. Five days ago, it had been seized by the Golden Phoenix Sect, whose power dwarfed that of the Fallen Phoenix Sect like the moon outshines the glowworm.

The Golden Core ancestor of the Fallen Phoenix Sect died valiantly in battle, and the majority of its disciples perished in this conflict. Despite multiple attempts at reinforcement by the Corpse Yin Sect, the disparity in strength was too great, and they could only watch as the Fallen Phoenix Sect was annihilated. This mountain peak had now become a temporary base for the cultivators of the Golden Phoenix Sect.

Jin Zhao stood in a pavilion at the summit of Fallen Phoenix Mountain, looking confidently towards the gate of the Corpse Yin Sect with Ling Su, Luo Hua, and Ma Zou Ri at his side. He laughed heartily, "I know all of you are wondering why we went to such lengths to conquer this Fallen Phoenix Mountain."

Ling Su, Luo Hua, and the others nodded slightly.

Ling Su spoke in a deep voice, "Indeed, we are all eager to understand why Fellow Daoist Jin has orchestrated such a plan. The three demonic sects of Wu Country merely have three Nascent Soul cultivators. Even relying on their sect's grand formation, they can only struggle in vain. It seems a bit costly to expend so much effort to take down a single Fallen Phoenix Mountain."

Jin Zhao slapped his storage bag, and a map of Wu Country unfolded before everyone. The map was detailed with mountains, rivers, and sects depicted vividly. Jin Zhao gestured, and the section detailing the Corpse Yin Sect suddenly enlarged.

"Do you see the brilliance in the Corpse Yin Sect's location?" he asked with a smile.

After a long scrutiny, Ling Su and the others shook their heads, unable to discern what Jin Zhao was hinting at.

Luo Hua scratched his head, "Fellow Daoist Jin, stop keeping us in suspense and just tell us."

Jin Zhao burst into laughter, his eyes sweeping across several mountain peaks surrounding the Corpse Yin Sect's gate. An irregular hexagram suddenly became apparent to everyone.

Ling Su, Luo Hua, and the others gasped in surprise.

A formation! And not just any formation, but a Deity Transformation-level formation linked to the mountain and river ley lines!

Since when had the Corpse Yin Sect laid down such a formidable formation?

Jin Zhao spoke calmly, "At first, I did not notice it either, just felt something was off. Sometimes, the Corpse Yin Sect even seemed to deliberately allow us to attack. But the sects on these six mountain peaks are among the strongest under the Corpse Yin Sect's command. Especially during the attack on Fallen Phoenix Mountain, the resistance we encountered was unprecedented. That's what made me suspicious. Luckily, I glanced at the map, and that's when I finally noticed something peculiar."

Jin Zhao calmly stated, "If I'm not mistaken, this formation is designed as a 'trap-the-enemy' type. If we attack the Corpse Yin Sect's gate, Zheng Ji will surely activate the formation and catch us off guard. A Deity Transformation-phase formation linked to the mountain and river ley lines... even if we survive, it will be by the slimmest of margins, and we'll be severely wounded."

Upon hearing this, Ling Su and the others broke out in a cold sweat.

Indeed! If they proceeded as planned and breached the Corpse Yin Sect's gate, they would be falling right into their trap!

Ling Su respectfully said, "We are fortunate that Fellow Daoist Jin was vigilant and noticed the Corpse Yin Sect's cunning plot!"

Jin Zhao merely smiled casually, "It's merely fortune, just fortune."

It was not merely fortune. The storage bag that Ximen Changqing had given him contained not only a vast amount of spirit stones, elixirs, and talismans but also a hint about the Corpse Yin Sect's Deity Transformation-phase formation. It was this hint that allowed him to discern the Corpse Yin Sect's strategy.

Jin Zhao lightly tapped on the peaks that made up the formation, his voice brimming with confidence, "What we need to do now is to dismantle the sects on these mountain peaks one by one. Only by completely disrupting this Deity Transformation-phase formation can we safely assault the Corpse Yin Sect."

Ling Su nodded emphatically, "Exactly! Once the Corpse Yin Sect, the leader of the three demonic sects, is eliminated, the Poison Gu Sect and Myriad Souls Sect will be mere sitting ducks, easily crushed!"

Luo Hua laughed heartily, "Perhaps the Poison Gu Sect and Myriad Souls Sect will surrender on the spot once the Corpse Yin Sect is razed to the ground!"

Ma Zouri and the others burst into laughter, not taking the three demonic sects of Wu Country seriously at all. It seemed as if unifying Northern Cold and sweeping through Wu Country was merely a matter of time.

Jin Zhao joined in the laughter, but a coldness lingered in his eyes. Especially when he looked at Ling Su and Luo Hua, his gaze was as sharp as a blade.

The downfall of the three demonic sects of Wu Country was imminent.

After that, it would be time to turn the blade inward.

The Ascendant Cloud Sect, Green Mountain Sect, and other such sects would be the first targets he would strike.

"Laugh, laugh," he thought. "I will ascend to dominate Northern Cold by stepping over you!"

Visions of his future triumph filled Jin Zhao's mind.

Suddenly, Luo Hua coughed a few times, "Cough, cough... The mountain breeze is quite chilly; perhaps we should head back."

Ling Su nodded, "With age, we can't compare to the younger generation anymore, and I too feel the weather turning a bit too cold..."

Jin Zhao gave a soft exclamation of surprise.

Cold weather?

That was not something Nascent Soul cultivators should normally feel. Unless they were in an environment formed by extremely cold spiritual objects, Nascent Soul cultivators rarely felt cold.

At that moment, a faint laughter echoed through the air.

"Oh? You claim to be adept in formations? Can you discern the array I have laid out across Fallen Phoenix Mountain?"

Jin Zhao, Ling Su, and the others suddenly paled.

They whipped around towards the source of the voice. Yet there was no one to be seen.

Jin Zhao's gaze settled on the entrance of the pavilion. To his horror, he found the two guards there frozen into ice sculptures!

Without hesitation, Jin Zhao, Ling Su, and the others activated their defensive spells. In the blink of an eye, shields, armor, and walls of vines formed around them.

Jin Zhao, Ling Su, Luo Hua, and the others looked around warily, deeply apprehensive.

Who could it be to approach them this closely?

"I... I..."

Suddenly, a pained voice came from nearby.

Upon closer inspection, they saw ice crystals slowly growing from Ma Zouri's throat.

The ice formed into a tree. It was translucent and beautifully sinister.

Ling Su immediately tried to cast a spell to heat Ma Zouri and melt the ice. But Jin Zhao abruptly pulled him back, "Don't touch him, he's already doomed."

Luo Hua was frantic, "No! We must try to save him!"

He reached out to pull him.

Only to find that Ma Zouri's arm crumbled like tofu, disintegrating into icy debris with a gentle tug.

Crash!

In a mere moment, a once formidable Nascent Soul cultivator was frozen to death, not even leaving a whole corpse behind.

Jin Zhao, Ling Su, Luo Hua, and the others felt a bone-chilling cold.

It came not just from the outside but also from within. This Fallen Phoenix Mountain was under a formation! And it had been laid without their slightest awareness!

"Sneaking around, surely the work of a demonic heretic! Come out and face me in battle!"

Luo Hua roared, his hair standing on end in fury.

Swoosh, swoosh!

Two streaks of cold light suddenly tore through the night, shooting towards them.

Luo Hua's face changed drastically, and he quickly dodged.

Yet the cold light seemed to have a life of its own, twisting in mid-air and targeting Luo Hua's throat with cunning precision.

Luo Hua bellowed, immediately summoning his life-bound magic treasure for defense.

It was a wooden shield glowing with a pale green luminescence.

A loud clang resounded as the cold light struck the shield.

The latter instantly developed a crack, its surface covered with frost, becoming unbearably heavy.

Luo Hua staggered back several steps before he could stop.

Just as he thought himself safe and took a breath, an invisible spiritual giant hand suddenly struck from behind!

Chapter 266: It's Impossible for Northern Cold to Possess Such Formidable Figures!

Two spiritual giant hands, carrying a surge of icy chill, invaded Luo Hua's mind in an instant, as if to freeze his very thoughts.

At that moment, Luo Hua found himself utterly powerless to resist. He could only instinctively summon a defensive spiritual technique.

A thin shield of spiritual sense formed within his mind.

However, this shield was instantly shattered by the overwhelming force of the giant hands.

After all, this was merely a Golden Core stage spiritual technique—how could it stand against a Nascent Soul stage power?

With a crack, his mind lay completely exposed before the giant hands.

Thump.

Luo Hua's eyes glazed over as he fell to the ground.

With his sense severely damaged, even if he did not become an imbecile, he no longer possessed any fighting capability.

All of this occurred in the blink of an eye.

From the moment Luo Hua was attacked to the loss of his combat abilities was merely an instant.

Jin Zhao, Ling Su, and the other five Nascent Soul cultivators' complexions changed drastically.

Luo Hua was, after all, a second-tier Nascent Soul cultivator.

To fall so easily?

The adversary's power was terrifyingly formidable!

Jin Zhao took a deep breath, feeling as if the air were cold blades piercing his lungs.

"Fellow daoists, the surrounding environment is growing colder, and if this continues, our strengths will diminish. Our only chance now is a desperate fight to escape!"

Jin Zhao declared in a low voice.

Ling Su nodded vehemently, "Attack, break through to the mountain base now!"

The five cultivators stood back to back and charged toward the pavilion entrance. However, they had only made it a few steps. The Nascent Soul cultivator at the forefront suddenly paled, instinctively retreating. But his speed was half a step too slow.

The next moment, a horrific explosion erupted. A cold, terrifying thunderous force spread. This Nascent Soul cultivator's body was instantly blown into flying blood and flesh. He only managed to scream a few times before his physical body lost all vitality. He had no choice but to abandon his body and let his Nascent Soul escape.

The face of the Nascent Soul little figure, still terrified by the blast, looked towards the source of the explosion. The neatly paved cobblestone ground had now become a massive crater. Surrounding it were scattered stone chips and flesh.

The remaining Nascent Soul cultivators were both shocked and enraged. They all speculated about what kind of attack it could have been.

At the same time, they looked around with trepidation, fearing another hidden weapon might strike.

Jin Zhao's expression was grave. "If I'm not mistaken, those were Yin Thunder Seeds."

Ling Su was taken aback, "Yin Thunder Seeds? I recall that those are techniques used by Golden Core demon cultivators. Just Golden Core techniques. How could they harm Nascent Soul cultivators?"

Jin Zhao gave a wry smile, "A single Yin Thunder Seed indeed can't hurt us, but hundreds exploding simultaneously might just manage to. However, the lethality we just witnessed suggests the presence of at least ten thousand Yin Thunder Seeds."

Ling Su and the others were speechless.

Ten thousand Yin Thunder Seeds? How much would Yin Thunder need to refine so many?

Yin Thunder is formed only by the confluence of Thunder Spiritual Qi and Yin Evil Qi.

Within the Northern Cold region, such sinister locations are exceedingly rare. Almost all are under the control of righteous sects like the Golden Phoenix Sect. How could someone refine ten thousand Yin Thunder Seeds?

"Ten thousand Yin Thunder Seeds might be this person's limit. If we break out separately, we can surely escape!"

One Nascent Soul cultivator growled. With that, he charged towards the left.

A light chuckle came from the night.

"You guessed wrong."

Boom, boom, boom!

A vast number of Yin Thunder Seeds exploded all at once.

That Nascent Soul cultivator suffered even more horrendously, his body shattered beyond recognition, his Nascent Soul extinguished amidst the explosions.

"Why seek death? It's a pity to lose a good Nascent Soul like that."

A voice came through the night again, this time tinged with a hint of reluctance.

This voice instilled fear in Ling Su and the others.

Pity?

This person was not lamenting the death of a Nascent Soul cultivator. They were merely regretting the loss of resources.

Clearly, in their eyes, these Nascent Soul cultivators were nothing more than mobile cultivation resources.

Seizing the moment, Jin Zhao silently retrieved a mirror from his storage bag. He suddenly expelled a breath of Nascent Soul essence, casting a spell into the mirror.

The mirror immediately emitted layers of white light, dispelling much of the surrounding darkness.

"Shield me. This treasure is called the Reflecting Mirror, and it can reveal the whereabouts of that person!" Jin Zhao whispered.

Hearing this, Ling Su and the others quickly positioned themselves in front of Jin Zhao.

Jin Zhao lifted the mirror and scanned the surroundings. Sure enough, a faint shadow appeared not far away.

The shadow, caught by the Reflecting Mirror's light, panicked and tried to dodge. However, the light from the mirror had a tracking effect.

No matter how the shadow attempted to evade, its outline was tinged with light, always faintly visible.

For a Nascent Soul cultivator, such a degree of illumination was more than sufficient!

"Attack! Destroy this sneaky demon!"

Ling Su and the others roared in fury, expelling the essence of their Nascent Souls to amplify their spells. Spells of fierce fire, violent wind, and pelting hail hurtled towards the shadow!

Boom, boom, boom!

The spells crashed down. The houses and the ground in that area were battered beyond recognition, and even the mountain peak was nearly torn apart.

"The sneaky demon has finally been caught! I used my most powerful spell just now; this person is undoubtedly dead! Let's go, see what this fellow is all about."

The Nascent Soul cultivators breathed a sigh of relief. The ferocious onslaught of spells towards that shadow had drained much of their Spiritual Qi. They needed to catch their breath to recover.

Jin Zhao, observing the devastation nearby, felt a nagging sense of unease.

Was what the Reflecting Mirror showed truly the enemy? The adversary had lurked for a long time, struck with lightning speed killing one and heavily injuring two—how could they die so easily by their hands?

With this thought, Jin Zhao secretly prepared his spells, vigilant for any potential enemies.

As expected, five dark shadows suddenly emerged from the night, launching an assault towards the backs of Ling Su and his two companions!

Besides Ling Su, who instinctively dodged, alerted by a strong premonition, The other two didn't even realize the danger behind them.

By the time they reacted, five life-bound spectral weapons had already smashed into their consciousness.

Thump, thump.

Two lifeless bodies fell from mid-air, hitting the ground with a thud.

Jin Zhao felt a chill in his heart.

Two Ghost Kings! One Corpse King!

Such a lineup was exceedingly formidable. What could possibly be the origin of such forces? It was impossible for Northern Cold to have such powerful figures!

At that moment, he suddenly felt a chill down his spine.

Chapter 267: After You Die, I Will Take Care of Your Wife and Children

Jin Zhao, without a moment to spare, hastily summoned a massive tortoise shield to protect his back, while his body was cloaked in a shimmering phantom armor of golden light.

The next instant, a fist large as a cauldron thundered against the phantom armor, its force akin to raging thunder.

The terrifying power instantly shattered the defensive spell!

The fist, undiminished in its fury, smashed through the tortoise shield and struck Jin Zhao squarely in the back.

Boom!

Jin Zhao felt as if he had been hit by an ancient giant elephant. His body was hurled dozens of zhang, crashing through several buildings before coming to a halt.

He lay buried under debris and broken bricks. He tried to speak. But as soon as he opened his mouth, he vomited blood copiously, mixed with fragments of his shattered organs.

"Body cultivator...!" Jin Zhao was profoundly shaken.

Body cultivators were rare but not unheard of.

In his youth, he too had dreamt of the path of body cultivation. He had reached the twentieth level of body cultivation but had to abandon it due to the scarcity of vital life-sustaining elixirs.

The overwhelming strength of that punch, which shattered his life-bound magic treasure, indicated that his opponent was an exceedingly strong body cultivator.

At least at the thirty-first level of body cultivation, equivalent to a first-layer Nascent Soul cultivator!

What should he do? Was he forced to resort to that one move?

"Fellow daoist Jin!" A Nascent Soul sprite flew into the ruins, struggling to clear away the rubble.

Jin Zhao, his face pale, managed a bitter smile.

The Nascent Soul sprite spoke anxiously, "Fellow daoist Jin, do you still have a way out?"

Jin Zhao pondered for a moment, "Indeed, there is one. Come closer, and I'll tell you."

The Nascent Soul sprite, unsuspecting, flew closer to Jin Zhao.

As he came within a foot, Jin Zhao suddenly rose, seizing him!

The Nascent Soul sprite, alarmed and angry, exclaimed, "Fellow daoist Jin, what are you doing!"

Jin Zhao sighed softly, "I wish it hadn't come to this. Rest assured, your death will be worthwhile. I will kill this man. After you die, I will take care of your wife and children. Go in peace."

He gently patted his sleeve. A dark shadow emerged from his sleeve .

The shadow, sensing the essence of the Nascent Soul, opened its gaping maw and swallowed the Nascent Soul sprite in one bite.

After consuming the Nascent Soul, the shadow displayed a look of satisfaction.

"Satiated, are you? Lend me your strength." Jin Zhao whispered low.

The shadow nodded, slowly merging into his body. In the blink of an eye, Jin Zhao's sunken back swelled like it was being inflated, rapidly returning to its original form. The injuries on his body healed at a visible speed, as if a strange power was mending all the wounds inside and out.

Not only that, a potent aura within him climbed steadily higher.

"Eh, what is this technique? Quite interesting."

Chu Xuan emerged from the night, his expression one of surprise as he watched Jin Zhao's aura surge.

Jin Zhao scoffed, "This is my Life Ghost, refined from my own lifespan. Each use, if I do not consume a Nascent Soul, costs me ten years of life. Boy, prepare to die!"

With that, he stomped on the ground and used an escaping technique. His body soared a hundred zhang in a short time. Three sharp spears of golden Spiritual Qi instantly formed and rushed towards Chu Xuan!

Chu Xuan's gaze sharpened, and he agilely dodged.

Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh!

His body moved like a nimble dragon, evading the spear thrusts that seemed perilous and mysterious at each turn, yet undoubtedly he seemed capable of avoiding them.

What surprised Jin Zhao even more was that wherever Chu Xuan moved, a layer of frost formed. The sharp spears became coated with frost, their originally fierce speed quickly decreasing.

By the end, they could be described as 'elderly and slow as a bell tolling'—so slow they seemed like snails, easily dodged.

"Stop testing. Your Life Ghost surely isn't limited to this. Come on, use your full strength."

Chu Xuan smiled. He had long noticed the oddity of the Life Ghost. Jin Zhao certainly had another deadly move hidden.

"Sharp eyes!"

Jin Zhao frowned slightly but then relaxed. This ferocious move he rarely used, fearing he was too weak and might be devoured by the Life Ghost instead. Now, if he did not use it, he would never have another chance.

"Life-Draining Blood Spear!"

Jin Zhao bellowed, spewing a large mouthful of Nascent Soul essence.

The three golden spears of Spiritual Qi merged into one at this moment, their form becoming even more sinister and ghastly. The tip was even tinged with blood.

"Go!"

Jin Zhao pointed, and the shadow streaked from his body, coiling around the blood spear. The speed of the Life-Draining Blood Spear surged in that instant, aiming straight for Chu Xuan's chest!

After releasing this strike, Jin Zhao's face was deathly pale. This move consumed a vast amount of Spiritual Qi and a significant portion of his lifespan. He would not use it lightly.

Once used, the opponent was certain to die.

Jin Zhao lifted his head, watching the man, waiting for the moment the Life-Draining Blood Spear would pierce through him.

"Interesting," Chu Xuan chuckled lightly.

With a swift motion, he summoned a small knife from his storage bag—the Sin Karma Saber.

"Reverse the merits, flames of vile karma!"

He shouted low, and suddenly, four layers of Merit Golden Wheels appeared behind his head. The towering merit light even illuminated the night sky.

As his command fell, the merit surged into the Sin Karma Saber, which instantly erupted into fierce karmic flames.

Jin Zhao was dumbstruck.

Four layers of Merit Golden Wheels?! You are fucking kidding me! A person who cultivates ghosts and refines corpses, with so many sinister methods, couldn't possibly be endowed with merit!

But he had no time to ponder further. Because the saber, wreathed in karmic flames, had already collided with his Spear!

Boom!

A violent explosion erupted, shattering the blood spear into countless pieces. The Life Ghost screamed and was instantly burned to ash by the karmic fire.

The Sin Karma Saber, unimpeded and now even faster, pierced through Jin Zhao's chest in the next moment.

Jin Zhao's eyes widened in disbelief, "You...!"

He instinctively tried to escape by ejecting his Nascent Soul and using a teleportation technique.

However, Huikong sneered coldly, activating the chain that had been waiting for a long time. The Nascent Soul sprite was tightly bound, unable to flee.

Elsewhere.

Ling Su roared, detonating his life-bound magic treasure at the cost of nearly blowing himself apart, managing to nearly annihilate Long.

But his head was pierced through with a punch by Hu.

His Nascent Soul tried to escape but was quickly seized by Two Arms and Four Armes.

Chu Xuan gestured, and the Sin Karma Saber, the Ice SUn Crossbow, the Yin Frost Bottle, and other magic treasures all returned to his storage bag.

The corpses and Nascent Souls of the Nascent Soul cultivators were sent respectively to the Corpse Tower and the Sky-Shielding Umbrella.

"Master, Long is dead," Hu reported, holding the fragments of Long's heroic remains, somewhat regretfully.

Chu Xuan sighed lightly, not particularly regretful. Long had always been rebellious and disobedient. His death was rather timely, freeing up a spot to refine a better corpse puppet.

"Collect the things, let's go," Chu Xuan commanded.

After cleaning the site completely, he unleashed a sphere of Blood Evil Yin Fire. The dark purple flames exploded forth, quickly enveloping the entire Fallen Phoenix Mountain.

Any traces of battle would be utterly obliterated by such flames, leaving nothing behind.